The U.S. Supreme Court upholds the law banning TikTok but Trump lobbying may save it
Nickie Louise
Posted On January 17, 2025
The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld legislation mandating that ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, divest its ownership by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide ban. This decision stems from concerns over TikTok’s data collection practices and its ties to the Chinese government, viewed as a national security risk.
Should ByteDance fail to sell TikTok to an American or government-approved foreign entity by the deadline, the app will be removed from U.S. app stores. Over time, existing users will also lose access as updates and support for the app are discontinued. Enforcement of this ban is expected to be managed by the next administration.
🚨BREAKING: The U.S. Supreme Court upholds the law banning TikTok. pic.twitter.com/hJTbCbNnIO
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) January 17, 2025
Friday’s Supreme Court decision highlights gaps in TikTok’s legal strategy, which relied heavily on a last-ditch effort to block the law.
Since President Joe Biden signed the ban-or-sell mandate eight months ago, TikTok executives have repeatedly sought clarity from CEO Shou Zi Chew on contingency plans if the company’s legal battle against the law fell through. According to two individuals familiar with the discussions, Chew either avoided providing a clear answer or claimed not to have considered the possibility.
With the deadline fast approaching and the Supreme Court ruling solidifying the law, it has become apparent that TikTok lacks a concrete backup strategy.
President-Elect Trump Lobbying May Save TikTok
Interestingly, President-elect Donald Trump’s team has indicated a willingness to explore options to keep TikTok operational. This could signal that TikTok’s prior efforts to rebuild its relationship with Trump may offer the company a lifeline, at least in the short term.
The Information reports that President-elect Donald Trump’s team has indicated within the last day that Trump intends to find a way to ensure TikTok’s survival. This development suggests that TikTok’s efforts to rebuild its relationship with Trump, combined with an element of fortunate timing, might provide the app with a temporary reprieve.
“President-elect Donald Trump’s team has signaled in the past day that Trump will find a way to keep TikTok alive. That suggests a combination of good luck and TikTok’s foresight in mending relations with Trump may at least temporarily save the day for the popular app,” The Information reported.
The clock is ticking for ByteDance to make its move, as the popular app’s future in the U.S. hangs in the balance.
Below is a screenshot of the Supreme Court’s ruling.
